Mitochondria and Free Radicals

Human cells contain tiny structures called mitochondria.
Mitochondria are
essentially the power plants that generate energy to keep the cells
(and, by extension, the human body) alive. However, what happens
sometimes is that the mitochondria will produce molecules called
‘free
radicals’. “Free radicals” are molecules
that contain a free electron.
This free electron is highly reactive, and can bond with other, healthy
cells, damaging them. This process is known as the free
radical theory of aging.
Much of modern anti-aging theory is focused on reducing the presence of
free radicals, and therefore slowing the visible aging process.

There is no Middle
Gear ...

Now,
consider running. As I stated in my previous article, I do not believe
human beings evolved with any need to run at a moderate pace over long
distances. Like most animals, we either walked, or learned to run very
fast for short periods. Our bodies are not adapted for long distance
running at all. Following this train of thought, I infer that the
mitochondria are at their most inefficient when jogging/running.
I’m
willing to bet that this is when the most free radicals are produced.
This is why serious marathon runners look so tired and worn. Although
they believe that running is a healthy activity that is beneficial to
the body, what they are really doing is rusting their bodies from the
inside out with the excessive production of free radicals. I believe
that the human body has evolved overtime to have two speeds, fast and
slow. If you force it to perform at a medium gear for which it is not
adapted by evolution, you are doing more harm to yourself than good.

What
do you think about my theory that running is one of the major causes of
aging? Am I on the right track, or am I all wet.
Either
way, I'd love to hear from you. If you have a comment or
question, feel free to use the comment
form on this website.

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